What summer in a bottle should be…

The latest year round offering from Boulevard Brewing Co. hasn’t given me a three month summer break like I’d get in elementary school, but my palate seems to think it’s given me something that is just as much of a blast.

A hoppy wheat is not something I really ever considered. Boulevard has pulled off the perfect marriage of the citrus hoppiness of an IPA and the subtle sweetness of a wheat brew. If Dr. Frankenstein was a craft brewer and given the opportunity to complete his perfected product, this might be what it would have tasted like.

The first pour of this one let’s you know you are getting ready to enjoy something special. It has a nice solid head with impressive retention. This isn’t really surprising as it’s pretty standard when it comes to the Boulevard releases.

The aroma smacks you in the face with a fresh bouquet of citrus and hops. The scents of orange, lemon, grapefruit, and freshly cut grass jars and stimulates the olfactory system.

Medium mouthfeel typical of the wheat variety. The taste of this one is anything but typical. It’s notes of wheat, banana, and oranges are underpinned by it’s grapefruit, grassy, and bitter finish. The word refreshing doesn’t do it justice.

I have never considered myself a fan of wheat beers. Somehow, this one suits my palate perfectly.

Yes- a wheat beer for those who do not like wheats. An IPA for those who do not like IPAs. This one is a loud and clear favorite of mine and has probably earned a regular spot in my fridge for years to come.

Thank you Boulevard Brewing Co. for making the nearly 110 degree heat of summer 2012 a little more bearable- or at least making it a little more difficult to remember.

By Cornelius

I like beer.

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